Can Kindle Battery Be Replaced? Here’s How to Do It!
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Kindles last several years, but why get a new one when you might be able to replace the battery? These handy devices have numerous components. If all of them are in good condition, you could swap the battery and enjoy several more years out of your favorite device.
Kindle batteries can be replaced by prying off the back plate, disconnecting the old battery, and putting a like-for-like battery in its place. Make sure the new battery is specifically designed for your Kindle’s model and year. Remember to tighten each of the retaining screws when you’re done.
Throughout this article, we’ll talk about whether or not Kindle batteries are easy to replace, how to replace the battery in your Kindle device, and how to know when it’s time.
Is There a Replaceable Battery in a Kindle?
Kindles have replaceable batteries, but they’re not easy to access. You have to remove the retaining screws, battery plate, etc.
Amazon prefers its customers send in their Kindle devices to be worked on by professionals. Check your warranty contract to know if opening the device will void the agreement.
TheBookBuff claims you can replace a Kindle battery by getting one from Amazon or a third-party service. However, it’s crucial that you choose the correct battery for your make and model. Installing the wrong battery can cause adverse effects. You’ll risk overcharging the device and causing electrical issues or potential fire hazards.
The Xsplendor Kindle Replacement Battery on Amazon suits multiple Kindle styles. It comes with the necessary terminal cable, making it the closest thing to a plug-and-play battery. The company also sells multiple other versions to suit almost any Kindle on the market.
Once you find the right battery for your Kindle, it’s time to replace the old one. Remember that most Kindle batteries need to be disposed of at Amazon stores and warehouses or local recycling plants. Most Kindles have lithium-ion batteries that can’t be reused once they’re completely diminished.
Read on for our detailed guide to replacing your Kindle’s battery.
How to Replace a Kindle Battery?
To replace a Kindle battery, follow these steps:
- Turn off the Kindle device and unplug it from the wall. Never open or operate on a Kindle (or any eBook tablet) while it’s on. You could risk electrical shock or short the device, causing localized damage to other components. Ensure the Kindle isn’t plugged in to stop the current to the battery.
- Remove the rear plate with a flathead screwdriver (some battery kits include removal tools). You might need to heat the back plate if it’s cold and stuck to the device. Some Kindle models have four retaining screws on the backside that can be removed to lift and reveal the internal components.
- Remove the retaining screws from the metal battery plate. The plate protects the battery from damage, but it also ensures a steady current. Your Kindle’s battery plate should have a screw on the top-right corner and a screw on the bottom-left corner. Pull them both out with a screwdriver, then set them aside.
- Disconnect the battery and connect the new one in its place. The Kindle battery should have a tab that’s connected to the battery terminal. Pinch and pull the battery cable to remove it. Connect the new battery cable to the battery terminal. Press the terminal to ensure it has a firm grip on the battery cable.
- Seal the battery and test your work. Replace the battery plate and the screws you removed during the third step. If your new battery comes with screws, you can use those. However, we suggest keeping the old battery plate since it’s specifically designed for your Kindle’s model and year.
If you prefer a video tutorial, review this helpful guide on how you can replace a Kindle battery:
How to Know if Your Kindle Battery Needs to Be Replaced
Your Kindle battery needs to be replaced if it turns off every few hours, if the battery runs out much quicker than it used it, or if you can’t turn on the device. Additional symptoms of a dead Kindle battery that needs to be replaced include an inability to charge and a bulging back plate.
Let’s review each of these issues.
- Your Kindle battery turns off every few hours. This could mean your Kindle battery disconnected from its terminal. Most old, worn batteries loosen over time. You can disconnect and reconnect the battery to its terminal, but it’ll keep happening. It could also mean the battery isn’t able to provide the necessary power anymore.
- The battery runs out without being used on its highest settings. Is your Kindle battery draining fast? This common sign shows your Kindle’s battery can’t hold a charge much longer. Eventually, this problem will make it so you can’t turn on your Kindle at all. It could make the charger useless.
- The Kindle doesn’t turn on anymore. If the battery can’t supply enough power to activate the device, it’s time to get a new one. Charging it won’t do anything because there’s not enough energy in the battery (even at a maximum charge). Unfortunately, many Kindle users think this means they have to replace the device.
- You’re not able to charge the Kindle device. If you can’t charge the device, it means the battery isn’t able to hold a charge long enough to build up. Once this occurs, the only thing you can do is replace the battery. Make sure the terminal is in good condition since wear and tear can break it and make any battery impossible to install.
- The battery is bulging or damaged. This rare occurrence takes place when the battery overheats. It could happen from using an incorrect charger or leaving the Kindle under direct heat for several hours. Your Kindle shouldn’t make a humming or buzzing noise. Turn it off and replace the battery when it cools down.
Most people toss their old Kindle devices once these symptoms show up. However, you can almost always replace one or more parts to extend your Kindle’s longevity. The battery typically dies quicker than most Kindle parts. Consider replacing the battery before assuming you need to get a new device.
How Many Years Does a Kindle Battery Last?
Kindle batteries usually last between 3 to 6 years, though recent models usually last a minimum of 4 years. If your Kindle battery stops working or needs to be replaced before this time frame, there’s a good chance it’s being used incorrectly. Keep your warranty on hand in case you’re able to get the battery replacement covered by Amazon.
According to My Reading World, you should expect to get at least three years out of your Kindle device. This time length assumes you use your Kindle daily. Those who use their devices sparingly and keep them maintained could get over half a decade out of their Kindle tablet.
Consider these suggestions to make your Kindle battery last longer:
- Don’t charge your Kindle battery until it’s below 10%. Some Kindles use batteries that will reduce their maximum charge if they’re charged before they’re close to empty.
- Store your Kindle away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Both of these issues can wreak havoc on your Kindle’s battery (and other internal parts).
Try to avoid running multiple programs simultaneously or keeping the brightness at its highest settings. Working your Kindle to the bone will undoubtedly reduce the battery’s longevity.
Credit to felipepelaquim on Pexels for the featured image of this article